squamous cells

What is keratinizing?

Keratinizing refers to a process in which squamous cells produce large amounts of a protein called keratin. Keratin is a tough, protective substance that makes tissues more resistant to injury, infection, and dehydration. As squamous cells become keratinizing, they gradually lose their ability to function as living cells. Instead, they form a strong outer layer …
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What is squamous dysplasia?

Squamous dysplasia is a precancerous condition, which means the affected cells are not cancerous but have the potential to develop into cancer over time if left untreated. The term describes changes in squamous cells, which are flat cells that cover the surface of certain tissues in the body. Under the microscope, these cells look abnormal, and …
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What is squamous metaplasia?

Squamous metaplasia is a benign (non-cancerous) change that occurs when the normal cells in a tissue or organ are replaced by specialized cells known as squamous cells. This type of change happens as an adaptive response when tissues are repeatedly irritated or inflamed. Squamous metaplasia often occurs in the respiratory tract, urinary tract (especially the …
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What is squamous dysplasia?

What is squamous dysplasia? Squamous dysplasia is a precancerous change involving an area of the body covered by squamous cells. If left untreated, squamous dysplasia can turn into a type of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma over time. What causes squamous dysplasia? The cause of squamous dysplasia depends on where in the body the disease …
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What is spongiosis?

Spongiosis is a term pathologists use to describe a specific change seen in the outer layer of your skin or the lining of your mouth. Normally, these areas are covered by specialized cells called squamous cells, which stick tightly together to form a protective barrier. Spongiosis occurs when these cells become separated or pushed apart …
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What is spongiotic?

Pathologists use the term spongiotic to describe tissue (usually skin) where fluid has built up between specialized cells called squamous cells, causing them to appear separated or pushed apart. Normally, squamous cells stick tightly together, forming a strong barrier on your skin or the lining of your mouth. When fluid separates these cells, the affected area looks …
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What are squamous cells?

Squamous cells are flat, thin cells that form protective surfaces on both the outside and inside of the body. Their shape resembles small plates or scales, allowing them to pack tightly together and create a strong barrier. This barrier protects the tissues underneath from injury, infection, and environmental exposure. These cells are part of a …
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Intercellular bridges

Intracellular bridges are tiny connections that link one cell to another. They are found in squamous cells, which are flat cells that make up the surface of the skin, the lining of the mouth, throat, and esophagus, and the outer layer of the cervix. These bridges allow squamous cells to stay firmly attached to each …
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